The Birmingham Stallions dominated the Jacksonville Bulls in a decisive 38-7 victory at Legion Field, showcasing their superiority on both sides of the ball. From the opening drive, Birmingham quarterback Cliff Stoudt set the tone, leading a methodical 14-play, 89-yard march that ended with an 11-yard touchdown pass to Ken Toler. Stoudt continued to orchestrate the offense efficiently, adding a 10-yard rushing touchdown late in the first quarter. By halftime, the Stallions had built a commanding 21-0 lead, thanks in part to Joe Cribbs’ 1-yard plunge following another lengthy drive.
The second half saw more of the same as Birmingham extended their lead with a 22-yard field goal by Dan Miller and a 10-yard touchdown pass from Stoudt to Earl Gant early in the fourth quarter. Jacksonville struggled to find any rhythm on offense, plagued by turnovers and an inability to sustain drives. Their lone score came late in the game when Ed Luther connected with Alton Alexis on a 20-yard touchdown pass. However, by that point, the game was well out of reach, especially after a 61-yard fumble recovery by Tommy Haynes for a touchdown sealed the Stallions’ victory.
Birmingham’s defense was relentless, forcing five turnovers and holding Jacksonville to just 24:10 in time of possession. The Stallions’ pass rush and secondary disrupted the Bulls’ passing game all afternoon, while their balanced offensive attack kept Jacksonville on their heels. Stoudt, named the game’s MVP, finished with 212 passing yards and two touchdowns, cementing Birmingham’s status as a team to watch in the USFL this season.
